Indoor games for parents and children: fun activities that use the body and the mind
We’ve gathered indoor games that parents and children can enjoy together.
These include traditional hand-play songs and play rhymes you can do without any equipment, as well as active movement games that let kids use their whole bodies.
It’s a rich collection perfect for parent–child activities in preschools and elementary schools, and for everyday play at home!
If you’re looking for “simple activities that help kids and adults connect,” please feel free to use this as a reference.
Have a blast—kids will be thrilled!
And for adults, it’s a great way to get some much-needed exercise!
- [Parent-Child Rec] Recreational activities and games for parents and children to enjoy together—also great for sports days.
- [Children’s Club] Easy and fun indoor games. Exciting party games
- [Elementary School] Quick and Easy! Indoor Recreational Activities Perfect for Lower Grades
- Fun Indoor Games for Elementary School Kids Without Any Equipment
- [For Kids] Indoor Fun! Large-Group Recreational Activities and Games
- Parent–child interactive play. Fun activities popular in childcare settings and at parent–child observation days.
- [For Kids] Exciting Class-vs-Class Games: Team Competition Activities
- Play ideas kids can enjoy from 1st to 6th grade [indoors & outdoors]
- Elementary School Fun Day a Big Hit! Indoor Game Idea Collection
- A collection of simple indoor recreational games
- Recommended for upper elementary grades! Exciting indoor recreation and games
- Games that liven up social and networking gatherings
- [Kindergarten/Daycare] Games and Performances for Fun Events
Indoor Games for Parents and Children: Fun Activities Using Body and Mind (11–20)
Newspaper War
Crumple up sheets of newspaper into many small, ball-like pieces.
Then, split into two teams on a court like for dodgeball, and throw the newspaper balls into the opponent’s side.
As a rule, you must not throw a bunch at once or kick them in with your feet.
The team that throws more newspaper balls into the opponent’s territory wins.
Kendama
Kendama is one of those toys that even moms and dads find nostalgic, and before you know it, you’re playing along and getting really into it, right? It brings back memories of practicing like crazy at the park or at school when you were a kid.
The joy of catching the ball just right is something special.
Taking on the challenge again and again with your child—saying, “Okay, this time for sure!”—will surely become a wonderful parent-child memory.
Another great point is that you can enjoy it anytime, regardless of the weather.
Why not deepen your bond with your child through kendama while also nurturing their concentration and dexterity?
ladder rock-paper-scissors
Secure a soft ladder, such as a rope ladder, to the ground with tape.
Starting from both ends, players move across the ladder and play rock-paper-scissors when they meet.
The loser goes to the back of their team’s line.
The winner continues along the ladder, and the team that reaches the opposing team’s side first wins.
You must not skip rungs or jump over the ladder.
If you don’t have a ladder, you can make a ladder shape on the floor with tape.
ohajiki game
To put it stylishly, it’s a “shooting game on a board.” The small, flat, coin-like pieces made of glass or similar materials are called ohajiki.
You flick them across a table or floor; if you hit another piece with one, it becomes yours.
Ohajiki is said to have been brought from China to Japan in the Nara period, making it not just an old-fashioned pastime but a game item with historical tradition.
It has traditionally been considered a girls’ game, but boys can enjoy it too.
snack making
Many parents are probably racking their brains because the kids are bored from being cooped up at home and have already played every game they can think of.
In times like these, why not try some simple home baking with what you have on hand? Even if you don’t usually make sweets, lots of chefs have been sharing easy recipes on social media lately.
In particular, desserts made with pancake mix are simple and there are tons of recipes available.
It takes a decent amount of time to make, and once it’s done you can enjoy eating it—two birds with one stone.
Inside-out pots!
“Nabe nabe sokonuke” is a traditional game that everyone can enjoy—little children, dads and moms, and even grandparents all know it.
It’s great because it can be played with just two people, and it still works as three, four, or more join in.
It’s a movement game done while singing: face each other and hold both hands, and when the song reaches the line ‘kaerimashō’ (let’s turn back), you spin your bodies while keeping your hands connected.
Adults should crouch a little to match the children’s height and make it easier for them to turn.
Indoor Games for Parents and Children: Fun Activities Using Body and Mind (21–30)
beanbags
Otedama are traditional toys that have been around for a long time.
While store-bought versions exist, you can also make them by sewing small fabric pouches filled with adzuki beans or rice.
They’re usually enjoyed by tossing and catching them to a song, but if you use three or more and improve your technique in a juggling style, you’re sure to have even more fun.
If you make otedama with fabric your child likes, they’ll be delighted to play with them.